This blog was set up to highlight some of things happening for Young Professionals in Seattle that want to get involved in public service, politics and the community. If you have ideas for postings, events to list, places you discovered etc., feel free to send me an e-mail or post a comment, I would love to hear from you: transformyourcomm@gmail.com

Thursday, October 30, 2008

The busy week continues, lots of exciting times as we get closer to the election. Halloween is tomorrow, I know I am feeling a bit overwhelmed with all of the things going on in the world, with the election, just with everything.

So here are some events to relax to and still get yourself out in the community in a fun way.

If you don't have Halloween plans, check out the:

Paranormal Pub Crawl in the Pike Place Market

When

Friday, October 31, 9pm – Saturday, November 1, 2008, 1am

Where

Market Theater/Alibi Room1428 Post AlleySeattle, WA 98101

What

2nd Annual Pub Crawl through the Market, this time co-produced by the Market Ghost Tours, Unexpected Productions and Market Ghost Tours. Travel between haunted bars and restaurants escorted by guides who will share ghost stories and gifts with you along the way. At any point in the evening, you can step into the theater to see one of three shows offered that night. Event ends in the Market theater with a midnight live improv show.

_______________________________An interesting event I came across as alternative to the bar scene:

Games:Masquerade Party Play Date, Nov 1st, $10. Guess you can recycle your Halloween costume for this one. This is one more group trying to present an alternative to the bar scene for singles, by creating interactivity over games, such as UNO, Twister, Hungry Hungry Hippos, Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots, Chess, Spades, Bridge, and so on. This is a good place for socialites seeking casual fun, less so for the gaming geeks.________________________________________Another cool event for networking that is low cost and for a good cause is:

The Toast of Seattle is one of the Chamber's most successful networking programs. With three structured networking rounds over breakfast at some of the region's best venues - you're guaranteed to expand your network!

"It is a great way to motivate yourself for the day!" - Jeff Altchech, Temporarily Yours, Inc.

Treehouse has been serving King County foster children since 1988 by providing unique education and enrichment services that build self-esteem and help them reach their fullest potential. There are currently more than 15,000 disadvantaged children eligible for Treehouse services.

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Also, consider hosting a donation drive for Treehouse with your office ( I have done this in the past with several of my employers and it is a lot of fun):Host a Holiday Donation Drive for foster kids!

The holidays can be tough for kids in foster care, who often face the season without parents, siblings or other relatives. Treehouse helps brighten the season for foster kids by making sure they have toys and new winter clothes - things every child deserves.

You can help Treehouse bring joy to nearly 1,000 foster kids this holiday season. Please add a foster child to your holiday list this season and host a holiday donation drive.

Lastly this should be a really fascinating event and if you haven't been to the African American Museum, it is a great opportunity to learn about your local community and some of the history and stories of African Americans in the Northwest.

GALLERY TALK WITH WASHINGTON FOUNDATION DIRECTOR: TIM DETWEILER Join Tim Detweiler, Executive Director of the James W. Washington Jr.and Janie Rogella Washington Foundation, as he discusses the incredible life and work of renowned local artist James W. Washington, Jr.Mr. Detweiler has spent the past three years working to preserve the art, writing and lifetime works of James W. Washington, Jr. The Foundation is working to share his vision through the preservation, interpretation, and showing of his artwork, studio, family garden, and home . This talk will focus on Mr. Washington¹s involvement in the Civil Rights Struggle, and how this theme consistently and powerfully shaped his artwork.

Monday, October 27, 2008

Wow, an unbelievably busy week with lots of civic engagement all over the place as we prepare for the election. The fall weather has been unbelievable and all I want to do is be outside. This weekend I was at Islandwood leading a retreat around civic engagement and board participation. I have had the idea to have a symposium for young professionals that want to be civically engaged and/ or connect with the city, non-profit, for-profit and network through a series of engaging workshops around public service, civic engagement and politics. Myself and colleagues from the YMCA are hoping to organize this in March or April. If you are interested and/or have some thoughts on this idea for a symposium, feel free to e-mail me at davis.alexandra@gmail.com.

Also, here are some interesting events coming up:____________________________________________Will Your Vote Be Counted? The Seattle University Young Democrats and the Political Science Club invite faculty, staff and students to a campus-wide film screening and panel discussion of Emmy award-winning director David Earnhardt's UNCOUNTED: The New Math of American Elections on Wednesday, October 29, 2008 from 6 to 9 PM in the Wyckoff Auditorium (see attached flyer). Film Synopsis: UNCOUNTED is an explosive new documentary that shows how the election fraud that changed the outcome of the 2004 election led to even greater fraud in 2006--and now looms as an unbridled threat to the outcome of the 2008 election. This controversial feature length film by Emmy award-winning director David Earnhardt examines in factual, logical, and yet startling terms how easy it is to change outcomes and undermine election integrity across the U.S. (http://www.uncountedthemovie.com)__________________________________________Celebration, Fundraiser, and Community Event, featuring WA State Representative and Media Justice ally Bob Hasegawa with special guests Sharon Maeda - UFCW 21, Jonathan Lawson - Reclaim the Media, and Karen Toering - Reclaim the Media ** Tuesday, October 28, 5:30-7:30pm (short program starts at 6:30pm) Hidmo Eritrean Cuisine http://www.hidmo.org 2000 S Jackson St. Seattle, 98144 Enjoy delicious Eritrean cuisine appetizers and join friends at one of the Central District neighborhood's most essential community hubs. No host bar. Donations to Bob Hasegawa's re-election campaign appreciated. Please RSVP to Susan Gleason, smgleason@gmail.com, 206-931-2613 Sponsored by Friends of Media Justice ** Organizational affiliations are listed for identification purposes only. ____________________________________________VOLUNTEER to Get Out the VOTE! Make a difference in this historic election by mobilizing immigrant and Latino voters on the Eastside! November 1st — November 4 Call Fatima Morales at 323-841-0033 or email at fatima@washingtoncan.org for more information. Washington CAN! is the state's largest non-profit grassroots community organization fighting for progressive social change. ¡Juntos podemos alentar el VOTO inmigrante y latino! Toma parte en esta eleccion historica y ayudanos a alentar el voto Latino e inmigrante en el este! 1ro de noviembre — 4 de noviembre Llame a Fátima Morales al 323-841-0033 o mande un correo electronico a fatima@washingtoncan.org para mas información. La Red Activa Comunitaria es la organizacion de base más grande del estado sin fines de lucro que lucha por los derechos de los inmigrantes y para cobertura medica para todos. _________________________________________The White Center Community Development Association and Trusted Advocates present The 2008 Community Summit: "Celebrating our Community, the White Center Way" Saturday, November 8 Mount View Elementary School 10811 12th Avenue SW 8:00am – 3:00pm Free Admission This year's community summit will gather families, government agencies and local community-based/non-profit organizations in a fun, family friendly environment. Live cultural performances, ethnic foods, door prizes and children's activities are just a taste of what the summit has to offer! Come learn about the issues affecting your community and how you can be involved in a positive way. There will be information booths and workshops on health, education, jobs, housing, annexation, immigration and more. Translation services will be provided in Cambodian, Vietnamese, Spanish, Tigrinya, Somali, Amharic, Samoan, Arabic and English (other languages available upon request). Childcare will be provided. Please help us spread the word! Invite your neighbors, family, friends, co-workers and classmates. For more information, and how you can be an event sponsor or exhibitor, contact: Ebony Davis: (206) 694-1082 x168 or ebony@wccda.org Ian Dapiaoen: (206) 694-1082 x175 or ian@wccda.org Event sponsors: White Center Community Development Association, Trusted Advocates, Youth Media Institute, City of Seattle, King County Housing Authority, City of Burien, White Center Early Learning Initiative, Southwest Boys and Girls Club , Seamar, Neighborhood House, White Center Public Health, Homesight, Para Los Ninos, White Center Library, PASEFIKA, Department of Social and Health Services, International Community Health Services, Red Cross, Roxbury Clinic, White Center Food Bank, Refugee Federation Service Center, International District Housing Alliance, YWCA Career Development, King County Food and Fitness Initiative, King County Public Health, Environmental Works, Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association, Homestead Community Land Trust, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, Technology Access Foundation, S. & L. Realty LLC, Center for the study of Social Policy

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Discuss race and politics Thursday! CD Forum presents... Which Way Seattle? Series: Black Elected Officials Thursday, October 23, 2008 7pm at Pigott Auditorium, Seattle University *Cost: Pay-What -You-Can Address how racial politics impact a candidate's platform. Discuss the impact of Black elected officials on their constituents. Explore whether or not Black representation makes a difference to issues faced in the community. Moderator: Christian M. Halliburton, Associate Professor of Law at Seattle University School of Law. Panelists: Rosalund Jenkins, Executive Director of the WA State Commission on African-American Affairs; Darryl Smith, former president of the Rainier Chamber of Commerce; and Eric Pettigrew, (D) Representative for the 37th Legislative District.For more info, please contact the CD Forum http://www.cdforum.orginfo@cdforum.org 206.323.4032 ______________________________________________________** Dress for Success launches Y.E.S.! **Thurs, 10/23 6-8pm ~ Downtown Banana Republic, 5th Ave and Pike StreetNo rsvp necessary - just stop on by! Dress for Success Seattle is excited to announce the launch of Young Executives for Success (Y.E.S!). Y.E.S! is a volunteer branch of Dress for Success geared toward young professional women and offering a fresh new approach to networking and fundraising in Seattle. It is where business and philanthropy come to meet and mingle through exciting events that "raise the fun" while "raising funds" for the organization. Their launch event will feature a fabulous night of shopping at 30% discount, networking and fundraising to celebrate the mission of Dress for Success. Want to learn more? Contact Lindsey Myer - Lindsey.Meyer@microsoft.comhttp://www.dressforsuccess.org/affiliate.aspx?sisid=63&pageid=21________________________________________--Money Wise Women Business Conference Educating and Empowering October 25, 2008 Keynote Speakers: Creating a Healthy Financial Life for Yourself & Your Business -- Marcia Brixey, author of The Money Therapist: A Woman’s Guide to Creating a Healthy Financial Life The Moxie Sauce – 9 Strategies for Taking Your Business by the Horns -- Ann Tardy, author of LifeMoxie! Ambition on a Mission: 9 Strategies for Taking Life by the Horns The Details for the Day: WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2008 from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm WHERE: North Seattle Community College, Seattle WA REGISTRATION INFO: Online at http://www.moneywisewomen.net . For more info contact Marcia Brixey by email or phone at marcia@moneywisewomen.net or (360 204-0982. REGISTRATION FEE: $79.00 (includes all sessions, materials, lunch & a copy of Marcia’s book The Money Therapist). After October 17, 2008 the registration fee is $89.00. BRING A FRIEND SPECIAL: Register yourself & a friend for $138.00 ($69.00 each--$10.00 off) _________________________________________________Latino Community Fund Summit Please Contact: Carmen Esparza carmen.esparza@latinocommunityfund.com 206-829-8895 Details and registration at http://www.latinocommunityfund.org/summit08 Are you ready to make a difference in the Latino Community? Are you ready to connect with and be part of Latino community leadership? Are you ready to find cross-sector solutions to improve the lives of all Washingtonians? The Latino Community Fund (LCF) in partnership with WA State Commission on Hispanic Affairs (CHA) and the University of Washington College of Education Invite you to the 2008 Latino Community Fund Summit Working across sectors (business, academic, government and non-profit) to strengthen community leadership Saturday October 25th, 2008 8:00 am to 2:30 pm Spirit of Washington Event Center 233 Burnet Ave. S Renton, WA 98055 (Breakfast and Lunch included) **The Latino Community Fund is a Public Foundation created by Latinos to invest in the well being of Latinos in Washington State. Details and registration at http://www.latinocommunityfund.org/summit08 _________________________Please join us on Sunday October 26 for a televised town hall event— Live From Main Street Seattle: Beyond Hockey Moms and Palin Politics - Women on Real National Security Sunday October 26, 2008, 4pm –5:30pm at MOHAI Join us, less then two weeks before the election, as we move beyond lipstick and hockey pucks to investigate what real national security looks like at Live From Main Street Seattle. In this nationally televised town hall hosted by GritTV's Laura Flanders, an all-women panel will examine how issues of national security impact our daily lives and ask the tough questions about how to build a better future. Does the solution lie in our military or social policies? What are women doing to ensure security in their communities and in the world at large? And how does the militarization of our budget affect security in other areas of our lives? Get ready for a conversation you haven't heard before and share your voice! RSVP for preferred seating here: http://livefrommainstreet.com/content/RSVPhttp://livefrommainstreet.com/content/RSVP

Panelists include: Commissioner Gael Tarleton, Commissioner at the Port of Seattle Erin Solaro, Author of Women in the Line of Fire: What you should know about Women in the Military Carol Kessler, Director of Center for Global Security for Pacific Northwest National Lab and Co-chair of Women in International Security Rep. Maralyn Chase, Washington’s 32nd District and The Washington State Director for the Women Legislator’s Lobby Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner, Executive Director of Mom's Rising Rosalinda Guillen, Co-founder of and Executive Director for Community to Community Development Martha Burk, Author and Money Editor at Ms. Magazine Sarah Van Gelder, Executive Editor at YES! Magazine Arrive early for free swag and books courtesy of The Media Consortium and the Progressive Book Club

For more information visit http://www.LiveFromMainStreet.org __________________________________________KBCS 91.3 FM Community Radio Highlights for October 26-November 1, 2008 Hossein Omoumi on The Old Country: Exploring Roots in Music, Sunday, October 26th at 7 p.m. A recent Town Hall Seattle performance of 'Trance of Devotion: Sufi Poetry and Persian Music' featured Hossein Omoumi renowned Persian ney (reed flute) player and Sufi singer. Vocalist Jessika Kenney, who is a student of Dr. Omoumi's, as well as four other master musicians perform this week. Locally produced at KBCS, The Old Country: Exploring Roots in Music offers listeners an exploration of music from around the world via discography, in-studio performances, and recorded concerts. If you have an idea for The Old Country, contact Barbie-Danielle DeCarlo through the KBCS website: http://www.kbcs.fm or by email at bdecarlo@kbcs.fm.

The Hayburners on Lunch With Folks, Tuesday, October 28th at 1 p.m. The Hayburners are a classic folk duo partnership which combines the songwriting talents and acoustic guitar work of Jennifer Spector and David Tieman. They appear at Egan’s Ballard Jam November 1st. Exploring the fringes of our two-party political system on Voices of Diversity, Wednesday, October 29th, 6 p.m. With the media attention focused on the Republicans and Democrats, we speak with minor party candidates, scholars and voters about other models. What did the founding fathers think of political parties? Why do "third parties" develop? What obstacles do they face? Guests include Cornell University Professor Theodore Lowi, Green Party Vice Presidential Candidate Rosa Clemente, Washington State Constitution Party Chairman Glenn Freeman and Founder of the Seattle Chapter of the Black Panther Party for Self Defense Aaron Dixon - who also ran for Senate with the Green Party. Local Stories

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

So I have lots of information to share today, there are so fabulous events and trainings going on this city. A few of these are today but others are in the next few weeks!

These folks below are happy because they are out and involved, why not you?

The Middle East: The Recent Past, the Likely Future, and the Challenges Facing the New Administration An Evening with Imad Mostepha, Syrian Ambassador to the US and Edward Peck, Former US Ambassador and Middle East Expert Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2008 7:00 PM; Registration begins at 6:15 PM Location: University of Washington: Kane Hall 220 (Seattle) What is the future of Iraq as the U.S. elects a new administration? What is Syria’s role in advancing peace and security in the region, and what are the impacts of Syria’s recent peace efforts? Is a U.S. war with Iran inevitable, or is there still room for diplomacy? To register please call 206-441-5910 or visit http://www.world-affairs.org/calendar.cfm

Digital Television is coming soon. On Feb. 17, 2009, all over-the-air broadcast TV will switch to a new digital format. Millions of viewers will need to install a special digital DTV converter box in order to keep watching free TV. Now is the time to get the information you need to make the switch. Who will be affected by the transition? If your TV is more than two years old, and is connected to an antenna instead of cable or satellite, you will need a digital TV converter box. What do I need to do to get ready? Order a free coupon from the government, good for $40 off the price of a DTV converter box (most boxes cost between $40 and $80). Order coupons online at http://www.dtv2009.gov/ or by calling 1-888-DTV-2009. Get your coupon as soon as possible it will take three weeks for the government to respond. Also, order an extra coupon even if you don't need it they're free (limit 2 coupons per household). You can donate your extra coupons to elders, shut-ins, group home residents, prisoners or others who may have special difficulty time preparing for the Feb. 17 transition. How can I get more information? Attend a public meeting on Oct. 23, when FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein will come to Seattle to answer our questions about the transition (details above). News and information about the DTV transition, links to the best online resources, and media-related issues and events in the Seattle area, can be found at http://www.reclaimthemedia.org/dtv. Call 1-888-DTV-2009 with any questions about coupons or the Feb. 17 DTV transition. -

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 - 8 PM Peter Apfelbaum & New York Hieroglyphics featuring Abdoulaye Diabate Apfelbaum's tentet performs the original piece Aural Histories, composed with a Chamber Music America/Doris Duke Charitable Foundation grant. In each of the piece's sections, a band member improvises over a composed background while Malian griot Abdoulaye Diabate sings a narrative of that particular musician's life. Not to be missed! $18 general Special Email Promotion: Save $4/ticket, buy online4 <http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producerevent/42935?prod_id=9678> , discount code = Jazz_at_Hughes

Invitation to Bobbie and Jerome from the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center Runs now through October 26 The Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center presents the world premiere production of Bobbie and Jerome, by Daniel W. Owens. Set in the stone yard of a gothic Harlem cathedral, this drama opens a lens into the lives of two men struggling to save the Stone Yard and settle a past score. Directed by Jacqueline Moscou. Tickets $15-$24 Special HALF PRICE Earshot Jazz Discount: buy online5 <http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/43790> , discount code = Jazz_at_Hughes

Local Female Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Speak at Community Cinema LIONESS event at SIFF Cinema – The new documentary, LIONESS, screens for free at SIFF Cinema this Saturday, October 25, 2008 from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM (doors at 2:00 PM). The film will be followed by a discussion featuring Lourdes E. "Alfie" Alvarado-Ramos, Deputy Director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs and Jan Buchanan, Women Veterans Program Manager for VA Puget Sound. Female soldiers from the 4th Stryker Brigade at Fort Lewis will also share their personal stories. On the Federal side, a benefits expert from the VA Puget Sound Health Care System Women's Clinic will be tabling in the lobby to help local vets on a more personal basis. Students from the UW ROTC will also be on hand to answer questions. SIFF Cinema is located in the Nelsholm Family Lecture Hall on the lower level of Marion Oliver McCaw Hall at Seattle Center in the heart of Seattle's theatre district.

LIONESS, a new film by Meg McLagan and Daria Sommers, tells the untold story of a group of female Army support soldiers who became the first women in American history to be sent into direct ground combat. These women are rarely —if ever— mentioned in news accounts of those battles. Community Cinema Seattle was named "Best Film Series In Seattle" by Seattle Metropolitan magazine in July 2008, and we're still 100% free. PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR Special free screening of LIONESS with discussion WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2008 at 2:30 PM (doors at 2:00 PM) WHERE: SIFF Cinema, 321 Mercer Street (McCaw Hall) Seattle, 98109 WHO: ITVS, KCTS, KBCS FM, SOCR, WA VA, VA, & SIFF HOW: Free. For more information visit http://communitycinema.org/ ___________________________________________________

2008 Latino Community Fund Summit Working across sectors (business, academic, government and non-profit) to strengthen community leadership The Latino Community Fund (LCF) in partnership with WA State Commission on Hispanic Affairs (CHA) and the University of Washington College of Education Invite you to the 2008 Latino Community Fund Summit Working across sectors (business, academic, government and non-profit) to strengthen community leadership Saturday October 25th, 2008 8:00 am to 2:30 pm Spirit of Washington Event Center 233 Burnet Ave. S Help to guide cross-sector efforts in: 1. Early Childhood Education and Childcare 2. Criminal Justice 3. Education 4. Employment/Job Training 5. Healthcare 6. Housing 7. Immigration 8. Safe and Healthy Communities Time and space are running out. Do not get left behind! Hurry and register! http://www.latinocommunityfund.org/summit08/ ________________________________________________ .

...VOTE, THEN WHAT? YOU ARE INVITED TO TWO CONVERSATIONS WITH CYNTHIA MCKINNEY 12 YEAR CONGRESSWOMAN, LEADER OF THE 2008 GREEN PARTY PRESIDENTIAL TICKET AND ADVOCATE FOR A BLACK LED RECONSTRUCTION PARTY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26TH 3 PM UMOJAFEST PEACE CENTER 2314 E SPRING ST (JUST EAST OF THE 23RD AND UNION POST OFFICE) Strategies for community organizing, greening and reconstruction: What do we do the day after the election? MONDAY, OCTOBER 27TH 11 AM BROADWAY PERFORMANCE HALL AT SEATTLE CENTRAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE (HOSTED BY THE BLACK STUDENT UNION) The power of student movements for change: How to use your campus as a tool to change the world! votetruth08.com legacy.runcynthiarun.org mckinney2008.com rosaclemente.com aahmcc.org *Power To The People Campaign *Green Party *Umojafest Peace Center *SCCC Black Student Union *Lagniappe Caravan/Seattle Common Ground *The Organizer Newspaper *AAHM&CC _______________________________________________________ LADIES FIRST, NOVEMBER 1, 2008 @Hidmo (20th & Jackson) 8pm - open mic // 9pm – features * INVINCIBLE (Detroit, IL) * GOOD SISTA/BAD SISTA (Portland, OR) * CRISTINA ORBE * DJ B-GIRL More information on artists: http://www.emergencemusic.net/bgirlmedia.comhttp://www.myspace.com/goodsistabadsistahttp://www.myspace.com/cristinahttp://www.cristinaorbe.com/ For more information about Ladies First: http://www.cara-seattle.org/ladiesfirst.htmlhttp://myspace.com/seattleladiesfirst * For more information about Hidmo Entertainment: http://www.hidmo.org/ __________________________________________________

Training of Trainers What: Popular Education Methodology Where: Camp Brotherhood Mt. Vernon, WA When: Thurs, 11/13/08 - Sun, 11/16/08 Training of Trainers Institute in Washington This TOT Institute prepares people to design and lead engaging and interactive workshops and presentations which support efforts to reduce economic inequality. It is right for you if you are: An educator, activist, organizer, trainer, or teacher seeking to improve your skills in designing, leading, or facilitating workshops and presentations; Engaged in raising awareness & moving people into action for economic justice and want to learn from others and share what you know. This Institute will give you the opportunity to: Practice designing presentations, workshops, activities and materials that will engage, teach, and motivate your audiences; Practice and receive constructive feedback on how to lead, facilitate, & manage participatory activities & discussion; Network and build movement and solidarity with others working for economic justice. Schedule and Program: Participants should arrive at Camp Brotherhood on Thursday, November 13, between 3:00 and 5:00 pm; the program begins after dinner on Thursday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Sessions will be conducted in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings in English and Spanish. Breaks will be provided during the day to allow participants to relax, catch their breath, and network with other participants. The program includes: Exploration of key principles and practices of popular education; Time for small teams of participants to plan and practice presentations and activities that they've brought with them; Opportunity for constructive feedback; Sessions on how to respond to challenging questions and difficult participants; Problem-solving discussions on how to adapt popular economics education workshops and materials for your communities; Demonstrations of activities from UFE workshops. Portions of the program, including practice presentations and feedback, will be conducted in separate Spanish and English tracks. REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCT. 31st Click here to register or e-mail Adrian Boutureira at adrian@faireconomy.org or call 617-423-2148 x118. Scholarships are available (must complete registration first) for participants representing community and grassroots organizations with limited financial resources. We also welcome contributions and sponsorships from well-funded organizations and individuals to help facilitate the participation of less well-funded groups. Follow the link below and be sure to select for your donation to go toward the Training of Trainers Institute. http://www.faireconomy.org/tot/waes08

Hey Hey, hope folks are having excellent mornings with the sunshine and all. Below are two opportunities to volunteer... mostly outside and to make a difference in communities that need help.

Hands On New Orleans is a very cool organization that works with volunteers to support disaster response efforts and meet community needs as a result of hurricanes that have hit the gulf coast, check them out!

Volunteer with Hands On New Orleans Greetings from Hands On New Orleans!Hands On New Orleans inspires and motivates people to meet critical community needs, by encouraging active citizenship through meaningful service. Since March 2006, Hands On New Orleans has engaged over 10,000 volunteers in service activities throughout the city of New Orleans.Hands On New Orleans continues to house up to 40 visiting volunteers a night, in a city still recovering from the nation's worst natural disaster. We have immediate availability through the middle of December for visiting volunteers. Volunteers are provided with three meals a day and internet access. We ask our volunteers to contribute $25/night towards our housing program (a fraction of the cost of a hotel). We also help to connect you with important volunteer efforts in the city. Volunteers have been a critical part of the recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast and will continue to lead the recovery moving forward. Come be a part of revitalizing a great American city!For more information, please visit our website at www.handsonneworleans.org or contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Heidi Mallis, at volunteer@handsonneworleans.org.

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If you are looking to do environmental service, the Seattle Parks and Rec organize great volunteer parties where you can work at all different sites in Seattle doing park restoration, ivy removal, beach clean up etc. just to name a few. It is a great opportunity to meet like minded folks that like to volunteer and they have events almost every weekend!

Friday, October 17, 2008

Ok dok, its been a crazy week, lots of exciting political action on the local, state and federal level. If you want to check out more about candidates for all elections, check out the Secretary of State's website on elections where you can see the a video voter's guide and the online voter's pamphlet, pretty nifty! http://www.secstate.wa.gov/elections/2008.aspxYou can also check the status of your voter registration and watch some cool videos including instructions for how to run for office. Get involved!

Don't be Speechless in Seattle.

Come on, that's lame!

If you want to get involved a different way and learn about the Seattle Non-profit community, there is the idealist.org career fair next week, check it out:

*WEDS OCT 22, 11 am - 3 pm, at Seattle University,Campion Hall Building, 914 East Jefferson Street, mainentrance via East James, Seattle; Please join us for theIdealist.org NONPROFIT CAREER FAIR. Our nonprofit careerfairs are a place for everyone who wants to make adifference in the world (including recent undergraduate or grad school students, experienced nonprofit professionals,and those wishing to transition to a nonprofit career fromother sectors) and we encourage you to consider the widerange of opportunities to move forward in your nonprofitcareer. To register, free for jobseekers info including schedule, directions, anda list of registered organizations, http://snipr.com/seattlecf or idealist.org

Some other interesting events coming up this weekend and they early part of next week that will energize you and give you the opportunity to learn something new are:

**SAT OCT 18, 9:30 pm, at Cinerama, Seattle; LangstonHughes African American Film Festival is proud to be theCommunity Copresenter of Noah's arc: Jumping the Broom,Dir. Patrick Ian Polk (US 2008 102 min), part of the 13thAnnual Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival. Picking upwhere Logo's landmark African-American ensemble televisionseries left off, Alex, Ricky, and Chance join Noah and hispartner Wade on a cross-country trip for Noah and Wade'swedding on Martha's Vineyard. Instead of a weekend ofrevelry, secrets and lies are exposed, hearts arechallenged, and friendships are turned upside down. Asassy, sexy look at the lives of a CLOSE-KNIT QUARTET OF GAY MEN who discovered their real family when they foundeach other. info http://www.threedollarbillcinema.org/

TUES OCT 21, 7:30 pm, at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8thAvenue at Seneca Street, Downstairs, enter on Seneca,Seattle; Antonia Juhasz on 'THE TYRANNY OF OIL.' Aleading expert on international trade and finance, AntoniaJuhasz is a fellow with Oil Change International and theInstitute for Policy Studies. Author of The Bush Agenda,Juhasz returns to Town Hall to talk about her upcomingbook, The Tyranny of Oil: the World's Most PowerfulIndustry, and What We Must Do To Stop It. Presented by theTown Hall Center for Civic Life, with Elliott Bay BookCompany. Tickets $5 available athttp://www.brownpapertickets.com/, 800-838-3006 and at thedoor beginning at 6:30. Town Hall members receive priorityseating. info http://www.townhallseattle.org/

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Also, an interesting TV show worth tuning in for on the local community access channel:

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Some opportunities to put your ideas out there and get heard. Put your voice out there and get involved! Have an awesome day!

I thought this was a funny picture.

The Service Board is recruiting volunteer mentors and high school students to participate now! Our program runs from January to June combining mentoring, job/life skills, social justice, community service, snowboarding, and good food. Check out our website today to apply! http://www.theserviceboard.org/ Register Now for the Governor's Committee on Disability Issues and Employment "Employer Awards Program" on October 23rd! The Governor's Committee on Disability Issues and Employment (GCDE) will hold its annual Employer Awards Program on October 23rd in Seatac Washington. The event recognizes businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies in Washington State that have excelled in hiring people with disabilities. In addition, the Governor's Trophy is awarded to an individual with a disability for outstanding achievement in promoting the hiring of people with disabilities. The Awards Program is organized collaboratively by the Washington State Business Leadership Network (WSBLN) and the GCDE. Advance registration is required and space is limited. There is no cost to attend and a free breakfast is included. To register, visit the following secure link: https://catalysttools.washington.edu/webq/survey/swb3/59985. Those who need assistance with the online registration process can call 360-438-3168 (voice) or 360-438-3167 (TTY), Monday through Friday from 9am-3pm. Thanks to assistance from the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Hearing Speech and Deafness Center in Seattle, accessibility accommodations are available for people with disabilities. ________________________________________________

Tenth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest Announcement and Rules The King County Civil Rights Commission is sponsoring its Tenth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing Essay Contest open to all eighth grade students attending public and private schools in King County. The purpose of the essay contest is to encourage middle and junior high school students to think critically about Dr. King's legacy of peace and justice. The essay theme is: "Breaking Barriers." Rules: The essay must be between 750 and 1,000 words and must be typed and doubled spaced on white 8.5" by 11" paper. Contestants must submit one typed original and one typed copy of the essay, by mail. The name, address, home phone number, e-mail address, school, grade and age of student author must be submitted on a cover page, accompanying the essay. Do not place your name on any other page. All essays must be in English and include a bibliography, utilizing at least one book source, but no more than one web site source All essays will be judged on the author's: knowledge of Dr. King and his work in the Civil Rights Movement, originality of ideas, development of point of view, insight into the essay theme, clarity of expression, organization, and grammar. All essays submitted become the property of the Commission and may be displayed on County web pages, in County publications, in local publications, and in the King County Tunnel. Submitted essays will not be returned. Prizes: First Prize: $100.00, Second Prize: $75.00, Third Prize: $50.00. Deadline: All essays must be postmarked by Friday, November 28, 2008, and mailed to: King County Civil Rights Commission, 400 Yesler Way, Room 260, Seattle, WA 98104. Essays postmarked after that date will not considered, nor returned. Notification of Winners: Winners will be notified by mail. Awards will be presented to the winners at the 22nd Annual King County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration in January, 2009, held in downtown Seattle. ____________________________________________________

Grants Promote Cultural Conservation Worldwide Genographic Legacy Fund The Genographic Legacy Fund, administered by the National Geographic Foundation, supports indigenous or traditional communities worldwide. The Fund provides grants of up to US$25,000 for the preservation and revitalization of tangible or intangible indigenous or traditional culture. Examples of funded projects include documenting a traditional language or oral history, traditional language training or curriculum development, and preserving significant sites and artifacts. Projects must show strong local community involvement in their planning, governance, and implementation and must deliver positive, tangible, and sustainable benefits. The next application deadline is December 15, 2008. Detailed information on the Fund's priorities and application guidelines are available on the website listed above. https://www3.nationalgeographic.com/genographic/legacy_fund.html

Monday, October 13, 2008

Well its Monday morning and we are all trying to get back in the saddle at work, if that is possible even. Here are some interesting exhibits, events and workshops that really give voice to diverse populations in Seattle and around the world.

This girl below is already telling her friends about it :) I really recommend you check them out.

University ofWashington, Seattle; Health Alliance International presents a photojournalism exhibit about the War in Iraq"Unembedded: Four INDEPENDENT PHOTOJOURNALISTS ON THE WARIN IRAQ." Unembedded is a national touring exhibit of 60visually stunning images that tell the story of the war'simpact on the lives of the Iraqi people on the ground. Itis a powerful expression of the effects of war that golargely ignored by the mainstream media. Work by GhaithAbdul-ahad, Kael Alford, Thorne Anderson, and RitaLeistner. Free. ends Dec 5, infohttp://depts.washington.edu/haiuw/hai/news/category/events/upcoming_events/ or http://www.unembedded.net/ orhttp://www.healthallianceinternational.org/

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**THROUGH OCT 16, 7 pm & 9 pm, at Northwest Film Forum,1515 12th Ave., Seattle; Northwest Film Forum presents TheExiles. After years of researching in the Native Americancommunity in Los Angeles, Kent Mackenzie began working withhis protagonists on The Exiles in 1957. The film, which wascompleted three years later, is one of the first - andstill very few - films about YOUNG INDIANS IN THE BIG CITY.For his empathetic observations, Mackenzie found poeticforms far from any kind of romanticizing. His graphic sensefor nocturnal Los Angeles, the use of interviews with theactors as the inner monologues of the protagonists, and thesoundtrack of the rock 'n' roll band "The Revels" fromradios and jukeboxes make The Exiles a masterpiece of greatbeauty and integrity. Its restoration closes another gapin the history of independent cinema. Special "Exiled inSeattle" Film Release Party, Q&A with Sherman Alexie on Oct14 after 7 pm screening. Tickets $6/NWFF members,$6.50/children & seniors, $9/general. Tickets and infohttp://www.nwfilmforum.org/, info 206-329-2629

_________________________________________________Human Trafficking: Modern Day SlaveryOn Thursday, October 23rd from 7 to 9pm the Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center (IPJC) will present a free workshop entitled “Human Trafficking: Modern Day Slavery” at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Center, 15236 21st Ave SW, Burien. Our featured speaker will be Rani Hong, a trafficking survivor and founder of the Tronie Foundation. We will also have education, resources and opportunities for action as we launch the Stop the Demand Campaign. IPJC and religious communities have been working on the issue of human trafficking for a number of years. We invite you to join us in making a difference on the issue of Human Trafficking. We encourage you to bring friends and other networks to the event.

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Also for some relief and relaxation after exposing yourself to some fantastic events and exhibits or even some relief from work, check out:

Health & HappinessTue 10/14/08 03:00 PM to Tue 10/14/08 04:00 PMJoin the Stress-Free Seattle Campaign! Free yoga and mediation seminars conducted by The Art of Living Foundation. Learn practical techniques that can be practiced at work and and home.http://stressfreeseattle.org/

Saturday, October 11, 2008

What a busy week, there are so many great Seattle community events happening, its really inspiring/ time consuming but I love every minute of it. Today I went to the Seattle Race Conference which was a great opportunity to dialogue with folks about current issues of race and culture in Seattle. Really fantastic!

Here are some fantastic opportunities in the next week or so to invest your time in:

___________________________________________________ Interfaith Leadership Summit What: NICO’s sixth annual Interfaith Leadership Summit “The Fourth Way: Hope for Compassionate Living” When: Monday October 13th, 2008 Where: Seattle Center (contact John Hale to confirm location) Cost: Free The Seeds of Compassion program culminated in an inspiring Day of InterSpirituality on April 15, 2008. NICO was represented on the Seeds of Compassion Executive Planning Team and we now have the opportunity to continue our collaboration in support of the Seeds of Compassion sustainability initiative called CAN, Compassionate Action Network. Specifically, NICO, CAN and Camp Brotherhood will jointly co-sponsor NICO’s Sixth Annual Interfaith Leadership Summit at the Seattle Center. The theme for this year’s summit is The Fourth Way: Hope for Compassionate Living – Learning is Healing; Healing is Learning. This will allow the energies created in April to widen the circle of friends acting compassionately for a better world. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact John Hale at jehale@earthlink.net 425-865-0659 Warm for Winter 08 Once again the Warm for Winter: 1000 Handmade Hats and Scarves Interfaith project is running strong. We are asking for beautiful handmade hats and scarves collected on or by 11/16/08. Last year 5,000 handmade hats and scarves were collected and distributed into 4 local counties to the homeless and needy. Start an Interfaith Knitting bee! Get your congregations together for a gift making session. Bring together people of all ages and faiths and create wonderful handmade gifts for our brothers and sisters in need. Pacific Fabrics will also be collecting for Warm for Winter at their 6 stores throughout the month of October. We are encouraging all faith communities to hold their own “Blessing of the Hats and Scarves” Service. Ask your minister and or Faith Leader if this is possible by the Sunday before the 16th of November. Many of you arranged this last year and the congregations really enjoyed seeing all the beautiful gifts from their own local faith communities. contact Janice Tufte: 206-675-2672 warmforwinter@yahoo.comWeb: http://interfaithcouncil.com/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=161_________________________________________________________The Seattle Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. cordially invites you to "A Celebration of Reds and Whites- A Wine Tasting Experience" featuring some of the most exquisite wines from the State of Washington and across the world. Also, the sorority celebrates its 2008-2009 year of service and the warm community supporters who have helped us throughout the years.View the work of local artists from C. Art Gallery as you sample various red and white wines and delightful cheese and chocolate pairings. A local expert from Pete's Winery will be on hand to offer wine tasting lessons and insight. Date: October 18th 2008 Time: 730-10pm Location: C Art Gallery- Community Room 843 Hiawatha Place South Seattle, WA 98144 Tickets are available for $25.00+service charge through &&&&&&http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/42760 or by contacting Seattle Alumnae by phone at (206) 666-9782 or via email at seattlealum@gmail.com. _____________________________________________Living Voices Presents: The Right To Dream, written by Rachel Atkins October 23, 2008 Come enjoy an entertaining and thoughtful live theatrical performance at the Northwest African American Museum! The struggle and sacrifice for civil rights in America is witnessed in this compelling story. The Right to Dream recreates a young man's coming of age as an African American in Mississippi during the 1950's and 1960's. This program illuminates the issues of civil rights, leading audiences to understand how the fight against prejudice has shaped our history. Free to the Public Thursday, October 23, 2008 6:30pm-7:30pm Northwest African American Museum 2300 S. Massachusetts St. Seattle, WA 98144 206.518.6000 http://www.naamnw.org___________________________________________Human Rights Observers Needed in Guatemala –The national organization, Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala (NISGUA), Guatemala Accompaniment Project (GAP) is recruiting qualified candidates to be human rights accompaniers. NISGUA is one of many organizations around the world that employ accompaniment as a vital tool in the global struggle for the respect of human rights.In the Guatemalan context, accompaniment creates a non-violent response to the threats, harassment, and violence faced by those who speak truth to power.They accompany survivors of Guatemala's 36-year-long civil war, grassroots organizations working for justice, and indigenous communities combating destructive mega-development projects on their land.For the first time ever, testimony from genocide survivors is being heard in Guatemalan courts. Please join us in supporting this historic process!Application Deadline: December 1, 2008;Next training: January 11-17, 2009;Six-month minimum commitment required.For more details:http://http://www.nisgua.org/get_involved/join_gap/

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

I know all of you in Seattle are looking for ways to support the community and one great way is to volunteer at non-profits who can really use your help.

A super cool resource for all of you folks looking to volunteer is the United Way volunteer event calendar. Here you can see opportunities that are available around the city, contact volunteer coordinators, get directions to the volunteer sites etc.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Everything in the title is actually in this blog post.... wild I know, read on.....Tommorrow is the second presidential debate starting a 6p.m. PST. A couple of places to watch the debates that I know of are: Shoot me an e-mail if there are some other places I should let people know about!The Moe Bar- Debate watch party -The second Presidential debate, with Washington Bus group for a party at Moe Bar (next to Neumo's in Capitol Hill).at Moe BarTue, October 7th at 6:30 pm to 9:00 pmMontlake Ale House- this is more of an organic and rowdy debate crowd, but definitely watching and enjoying the debate.This has been a supercrazy week with the stock market and the world economy so it is a great time to learn from some folks in the community about the economy and your options. Check this out:"IN THIS ECONOMY" Thursday, October 9, 7:00 PM Not A Number Gifts and Cards, 1905 N. 45th St, Wallingford Author Michael Tivana and Bob Xavier, a financial advisor are offering a free presentation on the economy. We live in a money-centric society and how money as we know it is changing, How do we chart our way through these turbulent times and keep our heads above water? This talk will be for people wanting to survive the looming economic crash. Free____________________________________________________SIMPLICITY GATHERING: "MONEY, HAPPINESS, AND SIMPLICITY" Monday, October 20, 2008, 7:30-9:00 PM St. John United Lutheran Church, 55th & Phinney across from zoo Facilitated by Cecile Andrews: What is the source of human happiness, and what role does money have to play? The economy's troubles have many of us focusing even more on what's important to us while rejecting the false palliatives of consumerism and spending. cecile@cecileandrews.com, http://www.cecileandrews.com, http://www.phinneyecovillage.net______________________________________________And if your life is feeling crazy because of the economy, maybe you want a job in the non-profit world. If you are looking for a job in the non-profit world or you want to learn about non-profits, this is a great fair to check out!Idealist.org Non-Profit Career Fair at Seattle UniversityWednesday, October 22, 2008 from 11am-3pm. This event will take place in the Campion Hall Building at 914 E. Jefferson Street.To register (it's free for jobseekers), and for more details including schedule, directions, and a list of registered organizations, please go to: http://www.idealist.org/fairs Please note that not all organizations at the fair will have job openings on that day. Some will have jobs, while others will have internships and volunteer opportunities. Our nonprofit career fairs are a place for everyone who wants to make a difference in the world (including recent undergraduate or grad school students, experienced nonprofit professionals, and those wishing to transition to a nonprofit career from other sectors) and we encourage you to consider the wide range of opportunities to move forward in your nonprofit career. There are two great FREE workshops preceding the event:Meaningful Work for Experienced Adults: Considering a Nonprofit Encore Career?(Monday, October 20, 2008, 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Seattle University Student Center Room 160)http://www.idealist.org/if/i/en/av/Event/107365-96Making the most of the Seattle Idealist Nonprofit Career Fairhttp://www.idealist.org/if/i/en/av/Event/107215-149_________________________________________________________Here is a really cool event that is bringing folks together to build community and develop leadership, two of my favorite things! I am planning to go for sure!2008 Latino Community Fund Summit Are you ready to make a difference in the Latino community? Are you ready to connect with and be part of Latino community and leadership? Are you ready to find cross-sector solutions to improve the lives of all Washingtonians?The Latino Community Fund (LCF) in partnership with WA State Commission on Hispanic Affairs (CHA) and the University of Washington College of Education invite you to the:

2008 Latino Community Fund SummitWorking across sectors (business, academic, government, and non-profit) to strengthen community leadership.

Saturday Oct. 25th, 20088:00am to 2:30pm

Spirit of Washington Event Center233 Burnet Ave. SRenton, WA 98055______________________________________________________________________This is a cool opportunity to volunteer in the U-district. Help young adults through art, you could have a big impact working with folks a bit younger than you. Definitely check it out.Sanctuary Art CenterThe Sanctuary Art Center is a non-profit art studio serving homeless youth and young adults ages 13-25 in the University District. The center operates five days a week and offers programs in Visual Arts, Theater and Music. Programs are instructed by professional and amateur artists from local community. The focus of our instruction is on creating meaningful relationships with the youth we serve as they are guided through the art making process. Most of the youth whom participate in our programs have experienced significant mental and or physical trauma. The programs we offer give youth an outlet for creative expression by which they can begin to create safety and meaning back into their lives.We are looking for people to be volunteers for our drop in program. Volunteers are expected to come to the art center at least twice monthly for a school year. While here volunteers are responsible to help, instruct, and inspire youth in a variety of art mediums and music. Volunteers are also here to form positive adult relationships with the youth that utilize the art center.Volunteers can choose from Tues 9am-12pm; Thurs 9am-12pm; Fri 4:30pm-7:30pm; Sat 10am-1pmContact: Adam Pierce206.522.6256volunteer@sanctuaryartcenter.org__________________________________________________

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Here are some cool opportunities to look into:This is a really nifty opportunity to meet others folks committed to peace and justice through watching a movie. Wallingford Neighbors for Peace and Justice have been doing this for years and if you can't make the movie but want to know about a good socialjustice movie to rent, they have a great archive list of movies they have shown in the past. Check them out!Wallingford Neighbors for Peace and Justice "Friday Night at the Meaningful Movies" Social Justice Films & Community Discussion ...Every Friday Night Free! - Donations Very Much Appreciated!! http://www.MeaningfulMovies.org All Films At: Keystone Congregational United Church of Christ, 5019 Keystone Place N., Seattle (Wallingford) 0.4 miles west of the I-5 NE 50th St. Exit - Metro Bus Routes 16, 26 & 44 Below: 1. Friday Night at the Meaningful Movies Schedule …followed by: 2. Other worthy events in the neighborhood (** indicates a change from the last posting) Film: “WE FEED THE WORLD” (96 min, Erwin Wagenhofer, 2005) Friday, October 10, 2008, 7:00-9:30 PM Close to a billion of the nearly seven billion people on Earth are starving today. But the food we are currently producing could feed 12 billion people. This is a film about food and globalization, fishermen and farmers, the flow of goods and cash flow -- a film about scarcity amid plenty. Why doesn't a tomato taste like a tomato today? How does one explain that 200 million people in India, supplier of 80% of Switzerland's wheat, suffer from malnutrition? Why are thousands of acres of the Amazon being cleared to grow soybeans? Is water something to which the public has a basic right or, as the CEO of the world's largest food company Nestlé suggests, a foodstuff with a market value? (Event is FREE and open to the public! ...but Donations are kindly accepted).

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Community Women's Voices: "Organizing for Women's Political Leadership and Participation in the 2008 Elections" Wednesday, October 8th, 2008 - 7:30 - 8:00 pm (and 3 other showings!) Don't miss the airing of this month's Community Women's Voices hosted by chapter activist Jan Strout on Channel 77. This 28 minute public affairs program sponsored by Seattle NOW will feature Seattle NOW Board members, Terianne Wilson of the Red Hotz Blues Sisters Band and Lulu Carpenter of Ladies First/CARA. The October program airs four times per month on Channel 77. October air dates include" Wednesdays, October 8th & 22nd, 2008 at 7:30 pm and Saturdays, September 11th & 25th, 2008 @ 8:30 pm. The program is also streamed live at pacific time on the http://www.scantv.org website.

China Teaching Opportunity If you would like to teach English in China with a team of proven professionals for five months (or longer), the Graduate School, USDA and F&S International may have an opportunity for you. We are looking for college students or already graduated students (those between one and five years post-graduation with a B.A. degree or above) with excellent English language skills to work at elementary/high schools and universities in Dalian, Hangzhou, Beijing and other cities in China. As part of the program, we will provide a basic salary, free housing in modern facilities with Western conveniences, free Chinese lessons and an international travel bonus. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty (30) college, recently graduated university-level students, or adults with TESOL or teaching-related experience and strong English skills DATES: Five (5) months minimum (renewable once for a total of 10 months) – March 1, 2009 through July 15, 2009 or September 1, 2009 through January 15, 2010 Ten (10) months from March 1, 2009 through December 30, 2009 or September 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010. BENEFITS: Basic salary of RMB 4000 per month (equivalent to USD 570); round-trip international airfare bonus (USD 500 – paid at the completion of program period of 5 months, or USD 1000 for 10 months); airport pick-up and ground travel assistance if necessary; free accommodation on or off campus in the form of a furnished flat with one bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom (24 hour hot water shower, TV, telephone, internet, bed, etc. Occupant will have to pay utilities, which should be no more than RMB 500.) A program for 10 months includes 2-3 weeks free to travel around China and free Mandarin lessons by native speakers. INSURANCE: The interns will be covered by a basic accident and sickness insurance through the Graduate School, USDA during the duration of their stay. LANGUAGE: Applicants need not know Chinese or to have taken Chinese classes. EFL and English majors are encouraged to apply. Those with majors in other subjects, such as social sciences, are also welcome to submit an application. DEADLINE: November 30, 2008 for spring placement, and March 30, 2009 for fall placement for spring and fall placement, postmarked. Rolling selection policy - Priority will be given to those who apply by the above deadline. Applications for the September start date only will be accepted after the deadline up until May 15, 2009. Please submit applications with all sections (main application, letters of reference, and official transcript) in one package. Letters of reference should be in a sealed envelope signed over the flap by the reference. References should comment on applicant's teaching ability and international/cultural experiences, and suitability for the assignment. Teachers must apply 4-6 months in advance of their desired program. We will confirm the offers 3 months before the starting date. Teachers are required to arrive 1-2 weeks earlier for Orientation and training in China. Interested applicants should e-mail Colin Fink at Colin_Fink@grad.usda.gov for a copy of the Chinese Internship Application http://www.fulbrightexchanges.org